An algorithm developed by MIT promises to significantly reduce MRI scan time (Photo: Tomas Vendis)

MRI scanner layout (Image: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory)

Molecular orientation with field activated (Image: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory)

Molecular orientation with field off (Image: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory)

MRI of herniated disk (Image: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory)

Conventional MRI scanning chamber

MIT's time-saving algorithm functions by applying data from the first scan in the construction of successive images (Image: MIT)

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Article Summary

If you've ever had to endure a diagnostic session in a magnetic resonance (MRI) machine, you know that lying motionless for up to 45 minutes can be uncomfortable at best. Add in the countless ear-ringing thumps, bangs and knocks and you have a procedure that begs for any sort of abbreviation. Thanks to a new algorithm developed by an MIT research team, the time spent in that claustrophobic tube may soon be appreciably shortened, without much loss of accuracy.